Runnin’ Patriots open hoops season with two wins

PILOT MOUNTAIN — The Surry Home Educators basketball team has opened the season with two wins at home.

The Runnin’ Patriots beat Blue Ridge 65-45 on Friday at the Armfield Civic Center, then pulled off a comeback for a 56-51 win over the Hickory Home Educators on Monday.

In the opener, the Runnin’ Pats jumped out to an early lead and never looked back against the Panthers.

Senior Nathaniel Goodman scored 15 of his 22 points in the first half, and Senior P.J. Bunke scored 13 of his 20 points in the first half as the Patriots led from the start behind what assistant coach Paul Bunke called “a consistent offense and intense team defense.”

“This was a good team win,” said Paul Bunke. “We defended our home court very well, and we’re very proud of our guys.”

Junior guard Ethan Holt added 14 points as he led the Patriots’ fast break, which was clicking all night long as the team collected 10 steals, led by Holt with four.

Surry also dominated the boards, Coach Bunke said, led by Goodman’s 18 rebounds, nine of which were from the offensive glass. Junior Brett Lowell added nine boards.

Shooting well from three-point territory, the Patriots were led again by Goodman, as he nailed all four of his attempts from deep. P.J. Bunke swished three from long range.

“This was an excellent way to start the season,” said Coach Bunke. “This team plays very well together, and we are getting good production from the bench.”

On Monday, the team improved to 2-0, although it took a rally to overcome the Hickory Badgers.

“Tonight was a classic example of Surry Runnin’ Patriots teamwork basketball,” said head coach Todd Gerber. “In the fourth quarter when it mattered most, they brought it home.”